Featured Artist: Patricia Adams

Rago Gallery & Markley Lobby – Munson Arts Education Building

The Junction City Arts Council is pleased to feature the work of regional artist Patricia “Patti” Adams in the Rago Gallery and Markley Lobby at the Munson Arts Education Building. Patti’s paintings capture the beauty of the Midwest—wide open skies, sweeping horizons, and the quiet power of the Kansas landscape.

Through expressive color and thoughtful composition, her work reflects both the calm and the drama that can be found across the prairie. We asked Patti a few questions so our community could learn a little more about her background and artistic process.

Interview with Patricia Adams

How did you first get started in art? Was there a moment when you realized you wanted to keep painting?

Being raised by thrifty parents, I was encouraged to either make something I wanted or alter something into the way I wanted it to be. So art and craft have always been a big part of my life. Everything in art and design starts with drawing and ends with painting, so they have always been my focus.

What do you enjoy most about painting Kansas landscapes?

I became a true Midwesterner after fully realizing the beauty of this region—endless skies and horizons, swaying grasses, calm of roaming livestock, and beautiful but violent storms. I enjoy being out and about to start my landscapes en plein air.

What do you hope people feel when they look at your work in the Rago Gallery and Markley Lobby?

My goal is to create a connection in every piece, and I hope that folks can relate to my choices of color, composition, and exaggeration.

Do you have a favorite piece in this exhibit? If so, why?

My favorite pieces are always the paintings with skies that are not blue! We see many colors in our skies here, and I enjoy painting yellow, pink, lavender—anything other than blue skies. But I also understand the love of a good blue sky!

What would you say to someone who loves art but feels unsure about creating their own?

The biggest obstacle in creating is getting started. It’s tough to just jump right in and see where it goes, but that is critical for me. And you have to allow yourself to make mistakes. It’s a huge win when a mistake turns into a masterpiece.

Meet the Artist

The community is invited to meet Patricia Adams at her Artist Reception on Saturday, April 18 from 5:30–7:30 PM at the Munson Arts Education Building, 131 W. 7th Street in Junction City, Kansas. Visitors will have the opportunity to view Patti’s work, visit with the artist, and learn more about the inspiration behind her paintings. Everyone is welcome to attend. Light appetizers and drinks will be served.